Waterproofing Boat Covers: Best Methods For Long-Lasting Protection

Waterproofing sprays are essential for boat owners to protect their vessels from the elements. There are several products on the market that can be used to waterproof boat covers, including Star Brite, Aurora Marine, and Kiwi Camp Dry. These products typically contain waterproofing agents that create a protective layer on the surface of the fabric, repelling water and preventing it from soaking through. When choosing a waterproofing spray, it is important to consider the application method, the presence of silicone or harmful chemicals, and the types of materials that can be treated. Additionally, it is crucial to follow the instructions for proper use and allow adequate drying time to ensure the effectiveness of the product.

Best waterproofing sprays for boat covers

Waterproofing sprays are a great way to protect your boat cover from water damage and keep it looking new. Here are some of the best waterproofing sprays for boat covers:

Star Brite Waterproofing Spray

Star Brite's Waterproofing Spray is an excellent option for boat covers as it provides waterproofing, UV protection, and stain resistance. It is suitable for a range of materials, including nylon, canvas, and polyester. The spray is easy to use and comes in different-sized containers, making it a convenient and versatile choice. It is also fuss-free and odourless, with no noticeable change to the fabric's feel or appearance.

303 Fabric Guard

303 Fabric Guard is a water-based polymer fabric waterproofing spray that is endorsed by Sunbrella. It offers UV protection and effective waterproofing. It is safe to use and provides good coverage at a reasonable price point.

Atsko Silicone Water-Guard

Atsko Silicone Water-Guard is an affordable and effective waterproofing spray, available at Walmart. It is suitable for older boat covers, as evidenced by one user who successfully waterproofed their 20+-year-old canvas boat cover. It takes about two cans to do the job properly, and it only allows a slight amount of leakage during heavy rainfall.

Kiwi Camp Dry

Kiwi Camp Dry is a silicone-based aerosol spray that provides long-lasting waterproofing for a range of items, including boat covers. It is very effective, and a little product goes a long way. It is recommended to apply two coats about four hours apart for the best results. While it does have a strong chemical odour, it eventually fades over time.

Aurora Marine Canvas Waterproofing Kit

This kit includes a fabric guard and a marine fabric cleaner. It is suitable for Sunbrella boat covers and other brands of acrylic and polyester marine canvas. It provides effective waterproofing and shields against rain, water pooling, and stains. It also offers UV protection.

These are just a few options for waterproofing sprays that can help protect your boat cover and keep it in good condition. It is important to follow the instructions and take the necessary precautions when applying these products.

Best waterproofing kits for boat covers

There are several waterproofing kits for boat covers available on the market. Here is a list of some of the best options:

Aurora Marine Canvas Waterproofing Kit

This kit includes a fabric guard and a marine fabric cleaner. It is designed to clean and waterproof Sunbrella boat covers, bimini tops, sails, upholstery, and awnings. The kit uses the latest Nanoized Polymer technology, which is environmentally friendly and free of harmful chemicals like PTFE, Teflon, and Silicone. The product is also non-toxic, non-flammable when dry, and safe for natural and synthetic fabrics. It is easy to use and can be applied by spraying or using a lint-free fabric paint roller or brush.

Star Brite Waterproofing Spray

Star Brite's Waterproofing Spray is a fuss-free, all-around option suitable for boat covers and other outdoor gear materials like nylon, canvas, and polyester. The spray is odourless and does not alter the look or feel of the fabric. It provides waterproofing, UV protection, and stain resistance. The product comes in multiple sizes, including 22, 64, and 128 ounces, and is easy to use straight out of the package.

Kiwi Camp Dry Heavy Duty Water Repellent

This is a silicone-based aerosol product suitable for a wide range of leather and fabric items, including boat covers. It offers long-lasting waterproofing, and a little goes a long way. However, it has a strong chemical odour that lingers, so it is recommended to allow adequate ventilation during and after application. This product may also darken lighter-coloured fabrics, so spot testing is advised.

Nikwax Tent & Gear Solarproof

This product is designed to re-waterproof items and protect against solar damage, making it suitable for boat covers, rainflys, and other outdoor gear. It can be applied to wet or dry surfaces and is most effective when the fabric is clean. While it is time-consuming to apply due to the small sprayer coverage, it provides impressive water repellency.

303 Fabric Guard for Outdoor Fabrics

Although one of the more expensive options, this product from 303 offers excellent performance and is specifically recommended for outdoor furniture.

Best waterproofing for different boat cover materials

The best type of waterproofing for your boat cover depends on the material of your cover. Here are some of the most common materials used for boat covers and the best waterproofing methods and products for each:

Vinyl-Coated Polyester

Vinyl-coated polyester is a waterproof fabric that is often used for Bimini tops. While it is waterproof, it does not breathe, which can lead to condensation and mildew if not well ventilated. Therefore, if you have a vinyl-coated polyester boat cover, it is important to ensure that it is properly ventilated. You can also look for products that offer waterproofing as well as mildew resistance, such as the Star Brite Water Repellent, which is suitable for use on boats and boat covers.

Woven Acrylic

Acrylic canvas is a popular choice for boat covers as it is waterproof, breathable, resistant to UV radiation, and mildew-resistant. However, the waterproofing treatment on acrylic canvas can wear off over time, especially if the canvas is scrubbed or cleaned with detergents. To reproof acrylic canvas, it is important to use a fluoropolymer-based product that is compatible with the original finish. Avoid using any products that contain silicone, as this can compromise the effectiveness of the waterproofing and the fabric's stain resistance. Look for spirit-based treatments with a strong odor, as these tend to perform better on acrylic canvas.

Marine-Grade Polyester

Marine-grade polyester, also known as Marine Vinyl, is a durable and waterproof fabric often used for boat covers. To ensure the best protection for your boat, look for a cover made from heavy-duty marine-grade polyester with a double PU coating, such as the Heavy Duty 600D Marine Grade Polyester Waterproof Boat Cover. This type of cover is rip-resistant and features precision double-thread stitching to prevent tearing and leakage. It is important to ensure that your marine-grade polyester cover has a snug fit to provide 360 degrees of protection for your boat.

Canvas

There are a variety of waterproofing products available for canvas boat covers, such as the Marine Canvas Waterproofing Kit, which includes a fabric guard and a marine fabric cleaner. When choosing a waterproofing product for a canvas boat cover, look for one that offers protection against water, UV rays, and stains. It is also important to ensure that the product is safe to use on your particular type of canvas and will not damage any other materials on your boat, such as plastic windows or zippers.

Oxford Fabric

Oxford fabric is a durable and rip-resistant material that is sometimes used for boat covers. To ensure the best protection for your boat, look for a cover made from heavy-duty Oxford fabric with a waterproof and UV-resistant coating, such as the Mancro Heavy Duty UV Resistant Marine Grade Outboard Cover. This type of cover is designed to fit a variety of boat types and features a secure lock system with adjustable straps and windproof buckles to withstand strong winds and prevent the cover from blowing off.

Best eco-friendly waterproofing for boat covers

When it comes to eco-friendly waterproofing for boat covers, there are a few products that stand out for their effectiveness and commitment to environmental sustainability. Here are some of the best options currently on the market:

Marine Canvas Waterproofing Kit by Aurora Marine

The Marine Canvas Waterproofing Kit by Aurora Marine is an excellent choice for those seeking an eco-friendly option to waterproof their boat covers. The kit includes a fabric guard, known as Canvas Shield, and a marine fabric cleaner, Fabri-Klean. This combination effectively cleans and waterproofs boat covers, protecting them from rain, water pooling, stains, mould, and UV-induced colour fading. The Canvas Shield utilises DRYKON, an environmentally friendly nano-polymer technology that is free from harmful chemicals such as PTFE, Teflon, and silicone. This product is suitable for use on Sunbrella, Top Gun, and other brands of acrylic and polyester marine canvas.

Nikwax Tent & Gear Solarproof

The Nikwax Tent & Gear Solarproof is a versatile waterproofing product suitable for boat covers, tents, rainflys, and other outdoor gear. It is designed to protect against water and sun damage, helping to extend the life of your gear. This product can be applied to wet or dry surfaces and is known for its effective water repellency. Nikwax is committed to sustainability and the reduction of environmental impact, making this an excellent eco-friendly choice.

Dry Guy Waterproofing Sprays

Dry Guy Waterproofing offers a range of eco-friendly waterproofing sprays designed to safeguard against the elements while minimising environmental impact. Their product line includes sprays for outdoor clothing fabrics, footwear, horse blankets, and pet apparel. These sprays are ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities and want to stay warm and dry without compromising their environmental values.

Grangers Performance Repel Plus

Grangers Performance Repel Plus is an eco-friendly waterproofing spray that comes in sustainable packaging. It is a non-aerosol product, which helps reduce environmental impact. The sprayer allows for full and even coverage, making it easy to apply. This product is suitable for a range of outdoor gear, including boat covers, and leaves your gear feeling like new without altering the material. Grangers also offers eco-friendly refill pouches, so you can reduce waste and save money on future purchases.

Best waterproofing for boat covers on a budget

If you're looking for a budget-friendly way to waterproof your boat cover, there are a few great options available. Here are some detailed suggestions to help you choose the best waterproofing method for your needs:

Sprays

Star Brite offers a range of waterproofing sprays suitable for boat covers. The Star Brite Waterproofing Spray is an excellent all-around option, providing waterproofing, UV protection, and stain resistance. It's suitable for boat covers and various outdoor gear materials like nylon, canvas, and polyester. The spray is easy to use, and you can choose from different sizes, including 22, 64, and 128 ounces. It's also fuss-free and odourless, so you don't have to worry about changing the feel or look of the fabric. This spray is a great choice and can be purchased from Amazon or Walmart.

Another option is the 303 Marine Aerospace Protectant, which offers superior UV protection, repels dust and dirt, and restores and maintains the appearance of your boat cover. It dries to a smooth, matte finish and is available from Amazon.

Kits

If you're looking for a kit that includes both a fabric cleaner and a waterproofing solution, the Marine Canvas Waterproofing Kit from Aurora Marine is a good choice. This kit can be used on boat covers, bimini tops, sail covers, and other outdoor fabrics. It shields against rain, water pooling, stains, and UV damage. The kit includes the Canvas Shield, a water and oil-resistant coating, and the Fabri-Klean, a marine fabric cleaner. You can purchase this kit from Amazon.

Wax

For a more traditional method, you can try the Fjallraven Greenland Wax, made from beeswax and paraffin. While this product is intended for the brand's G-1000 fabric, it can also be used on other canvas items. The application process is a bit more involved, as you need to firmly wipe the wax onto the fabric and then apply heat with an iron, hairdryer, or even a campfire. However, the results are impressive, causing water to bead up and stream away. This wax is available on Amazon and REI.

Wash-ins

If you're looking for a more convenient option, wash-ins are a great choice. The Grangers Wash + Repel Clothing 2-in-1 is a simple and effective way to waterproof your boat cover. Just add the liquid to your washing machine's soap dispenser, and it will take care of the rest. This product is perfect for down items and helps to extend the life of your outdoor gear. You can purchase it from Amazon or REI.

These options provide effective and budget-friendly ways to waterproof your boat cover. Be sure to follow the directions and take the necessary precautions for each product, and always allow adequate drying time before using your boat cover.

Frequently asked questions